National

Operate television, video, or motion picture camera to photograph images or scenes for various purposes, such as TV broadcasts, advertising, video production, or motion pictures.

Sample of reported job titles: Camera Operator, Photojournalist, Television News Photographer, Production Assistant, Videographer, Master Control Operator (MCO), Cameraman, Production Technician, Studio Camera Operator, Floor Director

Tasks

• Operate television or motion picture cameras to record scenes for television broadcasts, advertising, or motion pictures.
• Compose and frame each shot, applying the technical aspects of light, lenses, film, filters, and camera settings to achieve the effects sought by directors.
• Operate zoom lenses, changing images according to specifications and rehearsal instructions.
• Use cameras in any of several different camera mounts such as stationary, track-mounted, or crane-mounted.
• Test, clean, and maintain equipment to ensure proper working condition.
• Adjust positions and controls of cameras, printers, and related equipment to change focus, exposure, and lighting.
• Gather and edit raw footage on location to send to television affiliates for broadcast, using electronic news-gathering or film-production equipment.
• Confer with directors, sound and lighting technicians, electricians, and other crew members to discuss assignments and determine filming sequences, desired effects, camera movements, and lighting requirements.
• Observe sets or locations for potential problems and to determine filming and lighting requirements.
• Instruct camera operators regarding camera setups, angles, distances, movement, and variables and cues for starting and stopping filming.